How to cover round windows

Mary McNallyUpdated February 21, 2017

A round window, or porthole window, is often used as a traditional architectural decoration on gabled homes, placed beneath the gabled roof. But round windows can be found in different areas of modern homes as well. If you have a home with a round window, you may want to cover it for privacy. Save some money by designing your own round window cover.

Measure the circumference of your round window. Add 2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) to determine the size of your wooden hoop. Pull the hoop apart if it already has an opening. Cut through the hoop in one spot with a saw, if it does not have an opening.

Measure the diameter of the hoop. Add 5 cm (2 inches) to find the correct curtain length. Lay your curtain on a flat surface and smooth it out.

Measure the length you want -- the diameter of the hoop, plus 5 cm (2 inches) -- starting at the curtain's top hem. Mark the length with a pencil.

Thread the top hem onto the hoop. Wrap the bottom edge around the hoop to check your measurement. Remove the curtain and cut it at the pencil mark with scissors. Hem the cut bottom with about a 2.5 cm (1 inch) hem, using pins, needle and thread.

Thread each hem onto the top and bottom of the hoop, arranging the hems in gathers. Put the hoop back together with its own fastenings or secure the ends with a piece of clear tape.

Cut a piece of fabric 30 cm (1 foot) long by 5 cm (2 inches) wide from the remainder of the curtain. Lay this fabric over a length of ribbon. Gather the middle section of the curtain on the hoop. Tie it together with the fabric piece and ribbon, making a decorative bow.

Drill a hole about 6 mm (1/4 inch) deep into the moulding or wall at the top of the round window. Screw in the threaded cup hook until all of its threads disappear.

Hang the hoop over the cup hook. Arrange the top and bottom hems in symmetrical gathers on the hoop so that the tied curtain forms a perfect hourglass shape.

Tip

You can find a wooden hoop at a craft store or a DIY centre. You can thread a small piece of wire through the curtain and hoop to form a loop from which you can hang your finished treatment.

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About the Author

Mary McNally has been writing and editing for over 13 years, including publications at Cornell University Press, Larson Publications and College Athletic Magazines. McNally also wrote and edited career and computer materials for Stanford University and Ithaca College. She holds a master's degree in career development from John F. Kennedy University and a bachelor's degree from Cornell University in counseling.